Nissan Infiniti Debuts First Variable Compression Engine

Nissan luxury brand Infiniti has recently announced the debut of the new QX50 SUV, which features a brand new petrol engine under the hood. This internal compression engine allows the petrol engine to combust more efficiently than a typical petrol, which could make it more efficient than diesel.

Typically, this amount of efficiency would not be associated with a diesel in petrol unit. Labeled the “VC-Turbo” 2.0-liter four-cylinder, it features a compression ratio between 8:1 and 14:1 for maximum efficiency.

This innovative technology provides more power and better fuel efficiency by fluctuating the distance traveled by the pistons within each cylinder, depending on driving conditions. It’s an idea that automakers and engine developers have tried to perfect over the past few years.

Infiniti said the engine technology delivers “the torque and efficiency of an advanced diesel powertrain” without the diesel’s emissions.

Nissan’s chief powertrain engineer, Shinichi Kiga, told Automotive News that the VC-T engine is expected to give the QX50 27% better fuel economy than its predecessor and go zero to 60 MPH nearly a second faster than other four-cylinder engines.

The engine’s layout is the first major change to the system in over a century. The only downside for potential buyers is that the engine requires premium gasoline, which costs a bit more than regular.

While it’s not a new model for Infiniti, the QX50 will be the first vehicle to offer this variable-compression engine technology. Along with the new engine, developing the SUV on a new platform allowed the brand to add more passenger room and interior cargo space.

Additionally, Infiniti is introducing their new ProPilot Assist technology. This highway tech helps control acceleration, braking, and steering.

With a prediction by PwC expecting about 107 million vehicles to be manufactured around the world in 2020, there is no shortage of automotive innovations.

Automakers around the world are preparing competitive plans for electric vehicles, as well as making remarkable advancements in the old technology of internal combustion engines.